Executive Director, Research Oncology- Seattle, WA

Executive Director, Research Oncology (Seattle Site)

Summary

The Research Oncology department at Gilead Sciences is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Executive Director to lead and grow a research group focused on the discovery and development of novel therapies for the treatment of cancer. The successful candidate will help to implement and refine Gilead's oncology research strategy, with a focus on tumor-intrinsic oncogenic signaling pathways and mechanisms of immune evasion. Our highly collaborative and interdisciplinary research team utilizes state-of-the-art technologies and innovative methodologies to advance novel oncology and immuno-oncology therapies into the clinic. The position has ample opportunities for career growth through acquisition of new skills, experiences, and professional relationships in a fast-paced and resource-rich environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide vision and leadership for the discovery and pre-clinical development of novel oncology therapeutics.
• Devise and execute innovative strategy for targeting tumor-intrinsic pathways to promote cancer cell death and immune stimulation.
• Lead the assessment of novel targets and therapeutic agents across both large and small molecule modalities.
• Supervise and mentor a group of creative and motivated research scientists.
• Build and maintain close relationships with Gilead R&D departments.
• Lead inter-departmental meetings and discussions, communicate vision, strategy and research results to Gilead executives.
• Identify and support relevant external collaborations and relationships.
• Proactively seek and evaluate external business development opportunities for innovative oncology therapeutics.
• Represent Gilead externally at scientific meetings, advisory boards, and through high impact presentations, publications, and other scientific communications.

Knowledge, Experience and Skills

• PhD or equivalent graduate degree in a relevant life science discipline (e.g. cancer biology, cellular or molecular biology, immunology) with minimum of 10 years post-doctoral research experience.
• Extensive knowledge of oncogenic signalling pathways, cancer cell-immune cell crosstalk, and small molecule drug development.
• Abilities to conduct productive and innovative research based on deep understanding of drug discovery and development principles.
• Strong organizational skills combined with the ability to effectively lead large multi-disciplinary teams to advance complex drug discovery projects.
• Strong commitment to working cross-functionally in a complex and fast pace research organization.
• Proven high-impact scientific achievements in industry or academic settings.
• Team building and management skills including effective mentorship, career development, ambitious goal setting, and performance management.
• Advanced written and oral communication skills with ability to eloquently present complex strategies and results.